Art exhibition builds unity through colours, comradeship, community

Colors of Unity, the art exhibition curated and organised by Saima Furqan at Reem Art Gallery, Dubai, celebrates diversity, culture, creativity and community across borders, both in the schools of art represented and the number of nationalities taking part (July 12 – 19).

It showcases a collection of artworks not only from seasoned, but also emerging artists. The exhibition was inaugurated by a distinguished panel of guests including Laila Rahhall, Yaqoob Al Ali, Sultana Farouq Kazim, Ahmed Al Awadhi Rukni and Rafah Abdulrazzak, among others. “Their presence reflects the unity and cultural inclusiveness that the exhibition seeks to promote,” said Saima Furqan. “Each lends their voice and presence to an event that emphasises cultural cohesion.”

Laila Rahhall said that “when art brings people together, it builds voices stronger than political slogans or marketing campaigns. It speaks directly to the soul.” She added that the Women Business Circle, which she founded, will continue to back future initiatives uniting arts and society.

“This is the kind of event that defines nationhood not through borders, but bridges,” she said. The show had its beginnings when Saima Furqan dreamed of creating a platform where diversity would not only coexist, but thrive. She worked tirelessly, reaching across continents, contacting local arts foundations, coordinating with the Women Business Circle, and enlisting the support of Reem Art Gallery CEO, Rafah Abdulrazzak, for the venture.

A horse in contemplation.

The result is the exhibition featuring 20 artists from across the globe, spanning age ranges from six to well over standard retirement age. “Unity isn’t just a word,” Saima Furqan said in her opening speech. “It’s a living philosophy — an act of creating space for one another, lens-to-lens, brushstroke-to-brushstroke.” This thought manifests in the show, and is reflected in each canvas, textured sculpture, and piece of calligraphy. Colors of Unity can be said to be a tapestry of cultures and talent, since it features artwork from artists across various age groups and communities.

One of the exhibition’s highlights is the participation of young artists, whose fresh perspectives and vibrant creativity adds noteworthy charm and a futuristic touch to the event. The youngest participant, Eilin Aysha, is only 6 years old; she captivated audiences with her impressive work on inaugural night. So impressed was a young visitor, who is also an art student, that he confessed that “I didn’t expect a 6-year-old to be a highlight — it shows you never know where brilliance comes from!” Other talented young artists include Muhammad Hamdaan, Muhammad Sameer, Maham Shaddab, and Wardah Asad, all of whom showcase expressive works, mature for their age and as young as their talent. Complementing the youth are prominent adult and senior artists, whose mastery and experience brings mellowness to the exhibition.

Featured artists include Maqsood Kayani, Ali Nafnouf, Ece Yerlikhan, Dr. Wefag Aboud, Madhuri Musani Pattani, Natalia Venerova, Hikmat Lutfi Al Jaer, Waqas Ahmed, Rooma Eejaz, Bushra Furqan, Sahla Kolakkadan, Maliha Zaidi, Komal Habib and Saima Furqan, who is a noted artist herself. Each piece on show reflects the artist’s personal interpretation of unity, expressed through landscapes, calligraphy, abstract compositions, depictions of UAE monuments, textured artworks, and expressive portrayals of horses. The event also welcomed guests from various professions and walks of life, all united by their appreciation of art and culture. The gallery ambience was further elevated by the scents of Ahmed Al Maghribi Perfumes, which added notes of fragrances to flavour the event.

Looking at Burj Al Arab.

The exhibition is supported by Women Business Circle and Ahmed Al Maghribi Perfumes. “Their sponsorship plays a key role in the event’s success,” said Saima Furqan. Participating artists were honoured with certificates of appreciation, personally awarded by the chief guests, in recognition of their contributions and dedication to cultural expression. The exhibition is an example of Saima Furqan’s dedication to promoting unity through the arts, a vision which is strongly supported by Rafah Abdulrazzak. Saima Furqan and Rafah Abdulrazzak are already planning future exhibitions at Reem Art Gallery. With a focus on inclusion, innovation, and intercultural dialogue, the upcoming events promise to further enrich Dubai’s art scene.

It must be mentioned that Laila Rahhall and Saima Furqan are active workers for community building through art and cultural exchange; the successful turnout and impact of Colors of Unity can be seen as a testament to their shared commitment. Art has always thrived on diversity — of technique, perspective and medium. Throughout history, it has catalysed society by proposing ideas and interlinking generations. Colors of Unity does these by intentionally weaving youth, experience, region and gender into its quilt, besides promoting ideas of global unity.

The exhibition poses a simple yet profound question: what emerges when people from different walks of life collaborate on a blank canvas? The answer, for those who visit Reem Gallery this week, will speak through loud, colourful, and emotionally charged works that gives voice to shared humanity. It will remind viewers that unity is not the absence of difference; rather, it is a celebration of differences. Local schools are planning visits, galleries are contacting artists for workshops, and most importantly, it encourages Saima Furqan and Rafah Abdulrazzak to dream bigger. Rafah Abdulrazzak said that “we want Reem Gallery to be a safe space for expression, collaboration, and cross-cultural dialogue.” Colors of Unity is more than an exhibition; it is a communal heartbeat echoing through brushes and canvases. It reminds one that the greatest masterpieces often emerge not from solitude, but from shared experience, collaboration, and purpose.